WEST LIBERTY Year in Review FIRST CHURCH OF GOD
2024
THE YEAR JESUS WON
A Letter from Your Pastor
As we close out 2024, I Want to say how proud I am of all of you and everything We’Ve endured and accomplished in 2024.
I’ve had the privilege of watching us grow together for His Name, His Glory, and His Honor. Reflecting on 2024, the greatest part of being a pastor is witnessing Jesus do what He does best: growing us! I’ve seen each of you stretched and prepared to step up and step out in faith
As we look ahead to 2025, I want to encourage each of you to pray that God gives you a specific word for the new year Some of you may already have that word hold onto it! Trust that God will use it to resonate in powerful ways throughout this coming year.
Take a moment to review your highs and lows from 2024 If you haven’t already. Reflect on how you handled challenges, how you didn’t, and what you want to work on With a new year here, it’s time to mature and grow further, not because I say so, but because He desires you to draw closer to Him.
Never wait on me or anyone else to do what God has called you to do or to be. While I will always be here to support you in getting where you need to go, remember: if God is in it, you already have all you need. Fall deeply in love with Him. That will always be enough.
As your pastor, brother, and friend in Christ, I want to see the best version of who God has called you to be. Every day is spiritual warfare, but learn to fight back and press on toward the Prize and the Call on your life
Pain and hardship will come, but rest assured, it will all be worth it for eternity! LOVE BIG.
Love is the ultimate force it conquers all things. It is the power button for receiving and then giving back. Let love come first and foremost in your life, flowing directly from the throne room of Heaven
So walk on, child of God, walk on.
As a royal priesthood and a spiritual house, we are called to destroy hell by becoming love Nobody ever left an encounter with Jesus unchanged, and it should be the same with us as His saints. Why?
Because you are the embodiment of Christ!
Remember, spiritual pits, prisons, and valleys will surely come. But know this: Jesus is there with you! You often learn the most while dusting yourself off and getting back up
Jesus is seeking those who will say, “Yes, Lord, use me!” Trust that small, still voice and prepare your heart to do the unimaginable in this new year.
For such a time as this, He has called you. So walk on, child of God, walk on. Lead by example. Examine your faith. Endure to the end.
I am so proud of each of you. Going into 2025, speak life into people as you never have before. Mediocrity should not even be in our vocabulary, but “fire, fire, fire” should!
As I write this, I’m speaking to myself as well These past two years have been tough, but I hold dearly to those who have stood by me those who have had my front, my back, and my sides. You never gave up or grew weary.
You are the redeemed, entrusted with the mystery of the Gospel, revealed as Christ Jesus, the Hope of Glory, within you.
From the Wilcoxon’s, We thank you all
And remember this: If God is for you, who cares who is against you? The last time I checked, we win because He won
In love, Your brother in arms
A Letter from Your Leaders
Dear West Liberty First Church of God Family,
As we look back on 2024, we are grateful for God’s continued faithfulness. This booklet is not only to show you everything we were able to do last year but encourage you for the year ahead!
It has been a year full of uncertainty, BUT through it all, we have witnessed God’s power at work in ways that have strengthened our faith and encouraged our hearts. We’ve seen God Guide and Provide, and we are filled with hope as we look ahead to 2025!
As we move into 2025, we believe this will be a year of growth, service, and impact. God has placed a powerful vision before us, one that calls us to expand our reach, improve our facilities, and continue to deepen our connections with the community and each other. Plans for Potential building improvements, New community outreach Events, and youth ministry growth and activities are already taking shape, and we believe God is aligning everything we need to make it happen.
Part of this vision coming to life is getting people involved. The harvest is plenty, but the workers are few (Matthew 9:37). We need volunteers to serve in Many areas as you will see throughout this booklet, whether it’s teaching, leading, or supporting our events. We need generous givers to help fund the projects and outreach efforts that will allow us to grow and expand God’s Kingdom. And we need committed prayer warriors who will cover us in prayer as we step forward into this new season.
Your time, your resources, and your prayers are all essential in making this vision a reality. We’re asking you to step forward, get involved, and help us move boldly into what God has called us to do. We are excited for all that is to come and grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside you in this journey.
“Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing.” – Psalm 100:2
“let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also the interest of others.” - Philippians 2:4
Together, we will move forward in faith, trusting that God will continue to guide us as we serve, give, and pray. The future of our church is bright, and we’re excited to see what God will do through each of us in the year ahead.
As we look ahead to 2025, we want you to be excited about the new opportunities God Has Placed before us. Growth is a great problem to have. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to the church, we encourage you to step into a new area of service and growth this year.
Together, we can make 2025 a year of impact as we serve, give, and grow in faith.
Let’s embrace the new opportunities God has for us and step forward boldly.
Walking Alongside You, Your Elders + Leadership Team
Our Leadership
JESUS
Travis Cox Worship Deaco
Wyatt Wilcoxo Worship/Tech De
Terry Rittenhouse Security Deacon
Troy SAYLOR FACILITY Deacon
DEE Hartzler CHristian Ed Deacon
Starlett McBean Kitchen Deacon
Jen Wilcoxon Outreach Deacon
Nate Wilcoxon Pastor
Jeff Stillings Outreach Elder
Cheryl Schroeder Worship Elder
Rob Hartzler Facilities Elder
Shawn Huffman Christian Ed Elder
Mark BEvan Kitchen ELder
Jeff Clark FINANCE TEAM
Phyllis Rittenhosue FINANCE TEAM
Trent Spriggs FINANCE TEAM
Facilities Ministry
ElDER : ROB Hartzler
DEACONS : TROY SAylor + Terry Rittenhouse
Ministry Purposes :
The Facilities Ministry oversee’s any repairs, Maintenance, improvements, utilities and security of the church Property.
OUR 2024 WINS :
This year we completed the renovation of the parsonage and came in under budget. Although the parsonage was out of service for 5 months - we still made more RENT in 7 months than all 2023.
We replaced all the old white tables due to aging wear and tear with new Black lifetime tables.
The security team continues to ensure the safety and well being of our congregation both on site and at Public events.
WHAT WE WANT YOU TO KNOW :
We can use more help during the year with exterior Upkeep such as yard work (Mowing, Landscaping, Snow Removal).
Our Facility Maintenance team is always looking for volunteers for jobs of all sizes.
a new security system was installed this year. Doors are set to lock at specific times during all events. Sundays all doors besides the main rear entrance lock at 10:30AM. Should you need to get out press the exit button to the left of all doors.
Our security team continues to undergo training Ensuring we are prepared for Any emergencies or Potential threats- Your safety is our priority!
Parsonage Before
Parsonage After
Outreach Ministry
ElDER : Jeff Stillings
DEACONS : Jen Wilcoxon
Ministry
Purposes
:
Outreach is responsible for any activities going beyond our Walls.
OUR 2024 WINS :
Increased Life Recovery Meetings + Attendance
Successful Tent Revival
Fair Gate Fundraiser for Tent Revival
Indian Lake Tornado Cleanup + Outreach
Support of Springfield Camp Meeting in the kitchen
Fight Night
Fall Harvest Outreach
Plethora of Bob Evans Donations
WHAT WE WANT YOU TO KNOW :
We can always use Life Recovery Bibles + Touch points for the studies. WE are currently in need of Childcare workers for monday night Life Recovery. Thank You to each person who takes time to support the outreach events We can always use volunteers for many different items when you see an outreach event start promoting. Don’t be shy to get involved.
ElDER : Shawn Huffman DEACONS : Dee Hartzler
Christian-ED Ministry Ministry Purposes : Year in Review
Christian Ed Is all about helping people of all ages learn and grow in their faith journey with Christ. We offer something for everYone.
OUR 2024 WINS :
ChristianEducationisthriving!SeethefollowingabouteachGroupwecurrentlyhave.
•Teens:LedbyJeff&JoAnnClarkandBeauBallinger. ourteenshavegrownspiritually,withmanydedicatingtheirlivestoChristandbeing baptized
•JR.CHURCHClass:LedbyJenWilcoxon,SherryBaumgardner,andMandyRopp, thisclasshasgrowntremendouslyandisburstingwithenergy. ThekidscontinuetogrowinfaiththroughcreativeLessons,ParkOutingsandGroup Activities.TheirChristmasprogramperformancewasahighlightoftheyear.
•Nursery:LedbyNikkiSpriggsandCeairaSiders. thenurseryisbustlingwithlittleoneswholoveBiblesongs,playtime,andthecareof dedicatedvolunteers.
•Men’sGroup:LedbyJamesCopelandandTrentSpriggs. thisgroupconnectswithMenInandbeyondthechurchwalls.
•Ladies&LunchBibleStudy:LedbyChristyHuffman. thisgroupstartedinMayandcontinuestogrow,focusingonapplyingGod’sWordto dailylife.
•ThursdayNightWomen’sGroup:LedbyJenWilcoxon,thisgroupbeganafterThanksgiving andfocusesonChrist-centeredrelationshipsandbuildingbondsofsisterhoodfornew believers.
•YoungAdultsBibleStudy:BeguninSeptemberandledbyDanielleBrandyberry. thisgrouphasgrownfrom2to15members,fosteringconnectionsanddevelopingnew leaders.
•SeniorGroup:LedbyPhilJudy. theseniorsmeetregularlyforbreakfastandoutings,includingatriptoseethe ChristmaslightsatCliftonMillsmostrecently.
•SummerChurchCamp:Throughyoursupportandthekidsfundraisingefforts,wewere onceagainabletosend30+kidstochurchCampatnoexpensetofamilies!
WHAT WE WANT YOU TO KNOW :
•Duetothegrowthinouryouthprograms,we’dliketosplitup someoftheSundayclassesbutneedmoreteachersandvolunteers todoso.
•WearealsoinneedofaWednesdaynightteachersduetoone steppingdownandAdditionalvolunteers.
•We’dlovetohaveyoungadults(ages20-30)whoaregrounded intheirfaithstepuptoleadtheyouth.
ElDER : Mark Bevan DEACONS : Starlett McBean
Kitchen Ministry Ministry
Purposes : Year in Review
The Kitchen Ministry is responsible for any food you see at almost every event as well as oversee the meal Ministry.
OUR 2024 WINS :
Continued serving a full breakfast every Sunday morning with grocery donations and a successful weekly rotation. Provided meals for children and teens on Wednesday evenings earlier in the year; transitioned to snacks in the fall.
Supported the meal ministry by providing meals for those who were sick, recovering from surgery, or during funeral dinners. Received donations of energy drinks, using proceeds to support Youth Camp.
Hosted a luncheon for the Nights of Worship. Organized meals during the September tent meeting, serving approximately 1,000 meals with incredible community support. This was our first year with an outdoor kitchen.
Provided an outreach meal in Medway for tornado victims, serving 140 meals with help from volunteers.
Restarted recovery meals for Monday night meetings, serving 30 to 55 people weekly.
Received several skids of turkeys, Bob Evans sausage, and mashed potatoes in November, distributing items for holiday meals to the community and congregation while restocking for breakfast and recovery meals. Receive A Bob Evans Donation at least every other month, if not more.
Hosted a pizza party for children after their Christmas program in December.
WHAT WE WANT YOU TO KNOW :
The youth are getting more involved by serving in the kitchen on 5th Sundays. We can always use volunteers in the Kitchen for various Days and Activities- If interested please see Leadership. Thank You to each person who has helped in the kitchen. Whether its taking out the trash to wiping down tables- it takes the little things to make everything work. It is a blessing to see people come and want to get involved. Every job is important, big or small and we cannot get it done without you.
Worship Ministry
ElDER : Cheryl Schroeder
DEACONS :
Travis Cox, Jack McBean, Wyatt Wilcoxon
Ministry Purposes : Year in Review
The Purpose of the Worship ministry is to facilitate and usher the congregation into a state of praise and thanksgiving each Sunday as well as oversee all aspects of a worship service.
OUR 2024 WINS :
The Y5 Worship Team continues to Develop Raising up leaders through Speaking and involvement at GreenHills Quarterly Replacement and implementation of new equipment due to Lightning Strike
WHAT WE WANT YOU TO KNOW :
We are honored to lead the congregation in worship each week and love witnessing people grow in their faith.
Our service extends beyond Sundays through worship leadership and volunteering in outreach opportunities.
We are prayerfully seeking God’s guidance for the future of the worship team. We can always use volunteers in the Tech Booth which is expanding both physically and with opportunity. Training is provided! We would like to establish a set usher + Greeter Schedule.
General + Admin Updates
We added an additional member to the finance team earlier this year.
In May we had a lightning Strike that Fried ouR dishwasher. Upon Recommendation from our insurance we ended up replacing nearly everything plugged into the walls at $0 cost to the church. WE were also able to accomplish some projects we have wanted to do for several years. This project has just recently concluded.
As mentioned we completed our parsonage renovation under budget and are thankful for each person who volunteered time and resources to get this accomplished.
Going into 2025- Lifewise academy is getting established for West Liberty Salem. WLFCOG will be the hub for this when the time comes.
As you know we are an outreach based church. This year 23% (minimum) of our expenses benefit people and projects beyond our walls!
OUR VISION for 2025
OPEN UP NARTHEX
SANCTUARY IMPROVEMENTS
LETTER THE BUS
POSSIBLY REPLACE THE BUS
REPLACE STORAGE SHED
RESEAL CONCRETE
KITCHEN EXHAUST + IMPROVEMENTS
EXPAND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT RESTART FIRST FRIDAYS
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
SPLITTING UP CH. ED. CLASSES INCREASE ONLINE PRESENCE PRAYER ABOUT CHURCH EXPANSION
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he Proverbs
How Can You Get Involved?
Just a few highlights : If you see a need feel free to ask and get involved!
Facilities
Landscape Crew
Maintenance Crew
Cleanup on Sundays
Outreach
Donations of Life Recovery Bibles + Touch Points
Childcare on Mondays for Life Recovery
Involvement at Events for 2025
Christian Ed
We need teachers for every class. You must be able to pass a background check and be approved by the elders
Kitchen
Volunteers for prep and cleanup each sunday
Volunteers for Kitchen Outreach Events
Worship
Volunteers in the tech booth
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Mark 10:45
GENESIS 50:20
You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.